Our Summary

This research paper discusses the ongoing changes in education for oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMS) residency due to shifts in American society, especially those caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. These changes are affecting all areas of healthcare education, and the response needs to be comprehensive. Guidelines from the National Institutes of Health and the American Council on Graduate Medical Education offer a new way to structure and adapt OMS education programs. This involves including the Quadruple Aims and core competencies in OMS education. The paper also discusses how clinical education is adjusting to advancements in technology and changes in the overall higher education environment. As workforce and practice models evolve in tandem with technological developments, these changes are being integrated into OMS residency education.

FAQs

  1. How has the COVID-19 pandemic influenced changes in oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMS) residency education?
  2. What new structure is being suggested for OMS education programs according to the National Institutes of Health and the American Council on Graduate Medical Education guidelines?
  3. How are advancements in technology and changes in the higher education environment impacting clinical education in OMS residency?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about maxillofacial surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions provided by the surgeon, including fasting guidelines and medication restrictions. It is important to communicate any concerns or questions with your healthcare team before the surgery to ensure a smooth and successful procedure. Additionally, post-operative care instructions should be followed closely to promote proper healing and minimize complications. Remember to attend all follow-up appointments as scheduled and report any unexpected symptoms or concerns to your healthcare provider promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for maxillofacial surgery typically have conditions such as:

  1. Facial trauma: Patients who have suffered injuries to the face, such as fractures of the jaw, cheekbone, or nose, may require maxillofacial surgery to repair the damage.

  2. Orthognathic surgery: This type of surgery is performed to correct jaw deformities that can affect a person’s bite, speech, and appearance.

  3. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: Patients with TMJ disorders, which can cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles, may benefit from maxillofacial surgery to alleviate their symptoms.

  4. Cleft lip and palate: Maxillofacial surgery is often necessary to repair cleft lip and palate deformities in children and adults.

  5. Dental implants: Patients who have lost teeth and are looking to restore their smile and improve their oral function may undergo maxillofacial surgery to place dental implants.

  6. Sleep apnea: Maxillofacial surgery can be used to treat sleep apnea by repositioning the jaw and soft tissues in the throat to improve airflow during sleep.

  7. Tumors and cysts: Patients with benign or malignant tumors and cysts in the head and neck region may require maxillofacial surgery for their removal.

Overall, maxillofacial surgery is recommended for patients with a wide range of conditions affecting the face, jaws, and oral cavity that can significantly impact their quality of life and oral health.

Timeline

Before maxillofacial surgery:

  1. Initial consultation with a maxillofacial surgeon to discuss treatment options and goals.
  2. Pre-operative assessments and evaluations to ensure the patient is a suitable candidate for surgery.
  3. Preparing for surgery by following pre-operative instructions such as fasting and avoiding certain medications.
  4. Anesthesia consultation to discuss anesthesia options and any potential risks.
  5. Surgical planning and discussion of expected outcomes with the surgeon.

After maxillofacial surgery:

  1. Recovery period in the hospital or at home, depending on the complexity of the surgery.
  2. Post-operative follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  3. Pain management and medication to help manage discomfort during the recovery process.
  4. Physical therapy or rehabilitation to regain function and mobility in the affected area.
  5. Long-term follow-up care to monitor the results of the surgery and address any potential complications or issues that may arise.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific type of maxillofacial surgery do you recommend for my condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery period and what can I expect during the healing process?
  4. Will I need to follow a special diet or make any lifestyle changes before or after the surgery?
  5. What are the expected outcomes of the surgery and how will it improve my condition?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition?
  7. How experienced are you in performing this type of surgery?
  8. What post-operative care will be required and how often will I need to follow up with you?
  9. What is the cost of the surgery and will my insurance cover it?
  10. Are there any long-term effects or considerations I should be aware of before undergoing the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Assael LA. Journal: Oral Maxillofac Surg Clin North Am. 2022 Nov;34(4):537-544. doi: 10.1016/j.coms.2022.03.009. Epub 2022 Oct 10. PMID: 36229387